About CollegeFest

A Boston Tradition Since 1985

For more than four decades, CollegeFest has been the unofficial kickoff to the college experience in Boston.
What started in 1985 at the Boston University Armory has grown into one of the nation’s longest-running college lifestyle events, welcoming generations of students as they begin a new school year. Every fall, thousands of students from colleges and universities across Greater Boston come together for a day filled with brands, giveaways, entertainment, music, and unforgettable experiences.
Today, CollegeFest continues that tradition at Citizens House of Blues Boston, where students discover new brands, connect with local businesses, score exclusive offers, and celebrate the start of another incredible year.

More Than an Event

CollegeFest isn’t just another campus activity.
It’s where students discover what’s new in Boston.
It’s where national and local brands meet one of the most influential college populations in the country.
It’s where friendships begin, memories are made, and every attendee leaves with something to remember.
From free products and exclusive discounts to interactive experiences and live entertainment, CollegeFest has become a rite of passage for Boston college students.

A Legacy of Connecting Brands with Students

For nearly 40 years, CollegeFest has helped hundreds of brands build meaningful relationships with college students.
Whether you’re launching a new product, driving awareness, generating leads, or creating unforgettable experiences, CollegeFest provides an opportunity to engage with thousands of students face-to-face in a high-energy environment that’s impossible to replicate online.
Some of the world’s biggest brands have made CollegeFest part of their back-to-school marketing strategy, and every year new companies join them to connect with the next generation of consumers.

Ready to Experience CollegeFest?

For Students
Start your college year the right way.
Join thousands of students for an unforgettable day filled with free swag, exclusive giveaways, music, local experiences, and opportunities to discover everything Boston has to offer.
→ Reserve Your Free Student Ticket

For Sponsors & Brands
Want to connect with thousands of college students in a single day?
CollegeFest offers customized sponsorship opportunities that put your brand directly in front of one of the country’s most engaged student audiences.
Whether you’re looking to build awareness, generate leads, launch a product, or create an unforgettable activation, we’d love to help.
→ Become a Sponsor